La Union LGU and GCash team up to enable cashless payments for eco-tourism fees in San Juan, La Union

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Tourists can now pay the PHP 50.00 environmental fees in San Juan, La Union via GCash

As part of its ongoing push for sustainable tourism and environmental protection, the Municipality of San Juan, La Union, has partnered with GCash, the country’s leading finance app, to launch a cashless system for collecting eco-tourism fees. This convenient and simpler payment option will help ensure cleaner beaches, improved waste management, and stronger support for the town’s growing tourist economy.

San Juan, known for its surf culture and scenic beaches, faces challenges in collecting environmental fees due to its open layout and multiple beach access points. This has often led to missed payments and limited funds for keeping the town clean and well-maintained.

Using GCash’s Scan-to-Pay (STP) feature, tourists can conveniently pay the ₱50 environmental fee by scanning QR codes available in over 200 local establishments, such as hotels, cafés, and resorts, as well as in six designated Environmental Fee Hubs across the town.

Soon, QR codes will also be placed directly at key tourist spots and entry points to encourage on-the-spot payments and improve accessibility. This seamless, cashless system is designed to integrate smoothly into the visitor experience.

“This partnership reflects our shared goal of keeping San Juan clean and sustainable,” said Mayor Arturo Valdriz. “It gives both locals and tourists a simple way to help protect our environment,” San Juan Mayor Arturo Valdriz said.

The digital system makes payments more convenient for visitors. It helps the local government track collections in real time, improving transparency and ensuring the funds go directly to environmental programs like waste management and beach cleanups. With the partnership now in place and early results positive, the municipality plans to expand the program to more locations, further supporting the town's environmental efforts.

“With GCash, every eco-fee helps preserve the beauty of San Juan’s beaches and landscapes for future generations,” San Juan Tourism head Ezikiel Lanuzo said.

By streamlining digital payment solutions, GCash, together with its partners in local government, champions communities and promotes sustainability — one scan at a time. Building on the success of this initiative, the Public Sector team of GCash is looking to scale the program by partnering with more local government units across the country, supporting their efforts to adopt easy, convenient, safe, and secure e-payment solutions.

For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.

PonteFino Hotel & Estates: 20 Years of Glorious Legacy in Batangas City

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A legacy in Batangas City is the most premiere hotel in the province since founded in 2024, PonteFino Hotel. More than just a hotel, it is a famous landmark in Batangas City and an institution for the grand celebrations of milestone events for both public and private entities. It carries the local vibe in terms of closely knit friendships and families, and business partnerships that last a lifetime. PonteFino Hotel is a prestigious destination for locals and an ideal destination for business travelers.

PonteFino is a real estate trailblazer dedicated to developing townships in emerging cities outside Metro Manila. Its projects have been recognized by industry experts as key contributors to unprecedented regional development in the Philippines. One of its flagship projects, PonteFino Estates in Batangas City, is a master planned 18.5-hectare mixed-use luxury township located just 100 kilometers south of Metro Manila.

2024 marks a significant milestone for PonteFino as it celebrates its 20th anniversary with PonteFino Hotel, its anchor development in PonteFino Estates, an 18.5 hectare mixed-use township in Batangas City, recognized as the most luxurious estate in Southern Luzon. Since its establishment in 2004, PonteFino has played an essential role in shaping Batangas City into a dynamic and thriving community. Over the past two decades, the company has transformed a bold vision into a prominent development known for its high-quality residential offerings and its commitment to fostering a strong community. From premium homes to commercial lots and spaces, PonteFino Hotel and Estates has become a fundamental contributor to the region's development and prosperity.

On April 25, 2025, PonteFino Hotel formally launches another milestone development – the launch of the latest dining destination in Southern Luzon – Pastorelli.

The PASTORELLI Story

Since PonteFino Hotel was founded in 2004 as the most premium hotel in Batangas City, it has been offering delectable native cuisine to local and foreign guests alike. Located in a luxurious 18-hectare mixed-use estate, PonteFino Hotel is now reinventing itself with the introduction of a new dining destination that is set to transform the Batangas culinary experience with PASTORELLI.

PASTORELLI opened its doors to the public on March 8, 2025 for breakfast, lunch and dinner, serving a wide array of well-curated dishes inspired by an international flair and its signature Batangas menu items and local favorites from 20 years ago.

PASTORELLI was named after Atty. Antonio Pastor, member of a prominent family in Batangas City, from whom PonteFino bought the land where the hotel is now built on. Atty. Pastor, apart from being a lawyer, is also a renowned musician who enjoyed a colorful journey as a pianist and singer at a famous Italian restaurant in New York during his younger days. There he was given the nickname, Pastorelli, as coined by the Italian restaurant owner.

Today, Pastorelli opens its doors to guests with a new and elegant interior, that offers an awe-inspiring view of its newly renovated swimming pool and water park, finely curated menu options from local and international cuisines, refreshing drinks and delicious desserts.

Its culinary expert, Chef Stephen George Bustamante, has revolutionized the PonteFino Hotel dining experience with Pastorelli, creating exquisite dishes from the PonteFino Hotel signature items, Batangas specials, to modern and international entrees. His extensive experience in the culinary world, hails from over 20 illustrious years in the U.S.A. from San Francisco, Red Wood and San Mateo in California, after graduating from the California Culinary Academy in 2002 as an Associate of Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts. Chef George returned to the Philippines in 2016 and joined as Executive Sous Chef for Sentro 1771 until 2020. Afterwards, he joined the team that opened One World Deli as Corporate Executive Chef in 2020. In 2024, he joined PonteFino Hotel as Corporate Executive Chef and assumed the role as Vice President for the Food and Beverage Group, then opened Pastorelli on March 8, 2025.

Pastorelli is open for breakfast service from 6:00 am to 10:00 am, lunch from 11:30 am to 2:20 pm, and dinner from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The restaurant is also open for private functions. For reservations, you may visit www.pontefinohotel.com, Facebook: HotelPonteFino Instagram @HotelPonteFino or call: 09159641026 09175055214.

PonteFino Estates

On the real estate front, PonteFino offers a diverse array of properties for lease and sale. The Arcade is a premier commercial establishment ideal for offices and retail spaces, while The Mansions—an upscale townhouse development—features neo-Victorian architecture and has gained attention as the backdrop for BINI’s music video "Cherry on Top." Additionally, Accent Crest offers modern Asian-designed townhouses with environment sustainability features. PonteFino Estates is also the home of the first PEZA-registered I.T. business park – THE FORUM, a 4.26-hectare commercial complex with office, retail and commercial lots for sale with the Shophouses, and Commerce Walk for commercial and office spaces for lease.

So, why invest in Batangas City, specifically in PonteFino? The region is a growth hub and center for learning in Southern Tagalog, with over 100 multinational corporations and a robust workforce—6,000 graduates yearly. Batangas City is also recognized as the 6th largest source of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), among the top 10 emerging cities for IT & BPM, and one of the 25 Digital Cities. It's an investment destination poised for growth and opportunity.

To top it off, for 20 years, PonteFino has always been and will always be one of the driving force of Batangas City’s growth and development in terms of economic and social progress. It’s strategic location and commitment to excellence have made it a hub for businesses and a prime location for investors.

With its continuous expansion, PonteFino is set to contribute to the City’s enhancement regarding its infrastructures and elevate the standard of living of its residents – Bridging Life and Leisure.

#PonteFinoEstates #PonteFinoBatangasCity #PonteFinoEstatesBatangasCity

#PonteFinoHotel #PastorelliPonteFinoHotel #PonteFinoPastorelli #PastorelliBatangasCity

Discovery Resorts celebrates summer with music festivals across Boracay, Coron, and Samal

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Turn up the volume and dance to the beat on your summer plans as Discovery Resorts is set to host one the most unforgettable island parties of the year.

This year, the Love Boracay, Love Coron, and Love Samal events promise nights filled with music, dancing, and the magic of tropical island life.

Each destination offers something special: dance with the iconic Boracay sunset as your backdrop, party under the stars of Coron, and unwind on the laid-back shores of Samal. Wherever you go, you’ll find music, energy, and that unmistakable Discovery Resorts party vibes.

Pump up the Jam at Love Boracay

Once known as the legendary Laboracay weekend, the island’s biggest summer celebration is back with a new name—Love Boracay—and Discovery Boracay is right at the heart of the action.

This year’s festivities bring three nights of non-stop music, dancing, and island energy. As the sun dips below the horizon, Discovery Boracay comes alive with electrifying DJ sets and vibrant atmospheres across its most scenic spots: the Sand Bar, the Clubhouse Deck, and the 360 Roof Lounge.

From May 1 to 3, Discovery Boracay sets the stage for three unforgettable nights of music and celebration. Kick off the weekend with Sunset House as Ron Poe, Jerrick Ngo, and Warren Z bring high-energy house beats. On May 2, relive the best of the 80s and 90s at Wave Rewind featuring DJs Cathy Frey, Andru William, and Regie Oroca. Then ease into Beach Beats, a laid-back groove session with the sea breeze and golden hour glow featuring DJs Cathy Frey, Harold, and Big Bro.

Dance the night away at Love Coron

On May 1, Discovery Coron heats things up with Love Coron—a celebration of music and island life. DJ Carlo takes the stage with a high-energy set perfect for dancing under the stars.

Start your evening with sunset cocktails at the Clubhouse Deck from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., then enjoy a buffet dinner at Firefish Restaurant from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. for only Php 1,800 nett per person.

Feel the Vibe at Love Samal

Discovery Samal invites guests and Island dwellers to immerse themselves in an unforgettable beachfront celebration at Love Samal on May 3 from 6 p.m, to 1 a.m.

Celebrate the night amongst the stars with beats from DJ Aria, DJ Ivan Ramos, and DJ Charle Rivera.

Indulge in the vibrant energy of the evening with the Event Access Rates:

● Event Access worth Php 1,888 net per person - party access, unlimited cocktail drinks and 1 serving of bar chow.

● Event Access worth Php 3,500 net per person - party access, unlimited cocktail drinks, and access to full dinner buffet station.

● SVIP Access worth Php 20,000 net for 5 persons - party access for 5 persons, choice of exclusive cabana or glamping soiree table, complimentary bottle of Bacardi brand, unlimited cocktail drinks, and access to full dinner buffet station.

These rates already include boat transfers from Discovery Samal’s Davao Welcome Center.

Another option is an Overnight Stay with Event Access which starts at Php 15,010 net per room per night. This already includes an overnight stay in a Junior Suite with breakfast and event access for 2 persons.

For those seeking the ultimate escape, elevate your experience with an exclusive Room Package with Event Access starting at Php 15,010 nett per room per night. This offer already includes event access and roundtrip boat transfers, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the festivities without a worry. Booking period is until April 30 only.

For Love Boracay at Discovery Boracay and Love Samal at Discovery Samal, visit www.discoveryboracay.com/special-offers/love-boracay and www.discoverysamal.com/offers/love-samal-summer-party. Love Coron is open to in-house guests only so those who want to join in on the fun can head to the front desk for inquiries.

Direk Nijel de Mesa, Arci Muñoz brings the foreign council of NDMstudios to the Hongkong Filmart & Disneyland

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Award-winning Director-Writer-Producer Direk Nijel de Mesa (formerly known as “Njel”), Ms. Jan Christine (Executive VP of NDMstudios) with Arci Muñoz (Creative Director) has accomplished yet another feat by bringing his most loyal and trusted people from NDMstudios to attend the Hongkong Filmart. 

Their main objective was to acquire content for a global audience but it seems that Direk Nijel sees the world differently—rather than restricting his plans for just the Philippines, he has expanded his operations all around the world. His selected foreign council consists of sort-of-attachés that speak Japanese, Mandarin, Korean—aside from English and Filipino. This makes his global business transactions (particularly in the APAC region) are carried out with great ease.

The trip, apparently, serves as a “loyalty incentive” to people from NDMstudios who have shown great initiative, concern, and love for the company. Among the people who joined the trip with Direk Nijel, Ms. Jan Christine, and Arci Muñoz were artists from Japan: Kazuo Nawa, Keiko Makikawa, (from Taipei) Johnson Ching and Pau Cantos-- as well as NDMstudios’ homegrown film actress, Shane Santos, Seasoned Managing Director Junna Mangalindan, and award-winning director Carlo Alvarez.

“It has been quite an emotional journey for all of us, because we never knew there would be a time that members from our international offices will be able to meet in a different country. Work a little bit, bond, and have a bit of fun,” Direk Nijel de Mesa recounts as he expounded on his “Fly-Film-Fun” business model. “Basically, our filmming culture says it all. We fly to another destination, we film something, and then we have fun while we’re doing it. Sort of an ‘Ikigai’ moment for us.”

“Ikigai” is a Japanese philosophy that combines “raison d’etre” with profitability and an expanded worldview. Aside from NDMstudios Animation opening this month and a new academy brewing on the horizon, Direk Nijel is actually wants to create and provide jobs to more people. He is now looking for actors to perform for his Palanca Award-winning Subtext the musical and teachers to teach in his film and performing arts academy. Interested parties may send a letter of intent to www.facebook.com/NDMstudios or via ndmstudiosph@gmail.com .

Sun, Sea, and Surprises: Manami Resort Celebrates 2nd Anniversary with a Special Offer and Fresh Experiences

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Entering its second year, the luxury resort elevates the experience with new villas, award-winning service, and a dedicated dive center.

Sipalay City, Negros Occidental – April 2025 – Manami Resort, the first and only luxury nature resort in Sipalay, proudly marks its 2nd anniversary, celebrating a year of exceptional achievements and exciting new developments. As a sanctuary where luxury meets nature, Manami Resort continues to elevate its offerings, cementing its place as a premier destination for discerning travelers.

To mark this special occasion, Manami presents Celebrate in Serenity: Anniversary Escape—an exclusive offer where guests enjoy 50% off their second night. The package includes daily breakfast for two at Lingaw Restaurant, 15% off massage services at Linong Spa, and complimentary spelunking in the resort’s private cave, among other thoughtful perks.

April also marks the introduction of two additional two-bedroom Ocean View Villas. True to their name, these villas offer breathtaking panoramas and Manami’s signature luxury—set against a lush, natural backdrop.

“At Manami, every stay is more than just a getaway—it’s an invitation to embrace nature, culture, and meaningful experiences,” says Giro Solatorio, Property Head at Manami Resort. “As we celebrate our 2nd anniversary, we are excited to unveil new offerings that will make each guest’s journey even more memorable.”

Another exciting introduction in the pipeline is the grand opening of the Balas Dive and Experience Center April 21, 2025 where avid divers can explore the pristine marine biodiversity of Sipalay’s waters. “We also act as stewards of a nearby eight-year-old mangrove area, recognizing its crucial role in coastal protection and biodiversity,” Solatorio shares. “We have an in-house marine biologist dedicated to studying and preserving the rich marine ecosystem of Sipalay. Manami’s long-term goal is to establish itself as a leader in regenerative tourism.”

With accreditation from Technical Diving International – Scuba Diving International (TDISDI), certified divers can enjoy fun dives, with more advanced activities to be offered later this year. All gears for this are available for rent at the resort.

Manami Resort’s first year of operation is already paved with awards, winning the World Luxury Hotel Awards 2024, World Luxury Spa Awards 2024, and World Luxury Restaurant Awards 2024.

For more information, visit www.manamiresort.com, call +63 917 103 2026, or email reservations@manamiresort.com. 

Follow us on facebook.com/ManamiResort , and instagram.com/manamilife.

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ABOUT MANAMI RESORT 

Perched in a best-kept-secret nature oasis of Negros Occidental, Manami Resort is the first and only luxury nature resort in Sipalay.

This tranquil pocket of paradise is a stunning jewel woven with nature, offering an understated luxury escape with an up-close-and-personal nature experience, tucked in its curled coastline. Every piece of the estate brings a celebration of the spirit of a manami life, rooted from its vivid culture and reverence for the nature reserve, with experiences that are more than just endearing tales to tell but also encounters that enrich.

ABOUT SIGNATURE COLLECTION

Signature Collection is a portfolio of resort properties under Discovery Hospitality Corporation, each with their own style and personality. Each property under the Signature Collection is as unique as its destination, and it veers away from the cookie-cutter approach in hospitality, promising authentic experiences to its discerning guests. Signature Collection properties are carefully curated and thoughtfully designed to offer Discovery Resorts’ signature brand of service and character that’s true to its DNA.

The Signature Collection celebrates the craftsmanship, artistry, identity and stories of its brands while ensuring the culture of care and world-class hospitality Discovery Resorts are known for.

ABOUT SMALL LUXURY HOTELS OF THE WORLD

Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) is a thoughtfully curated community of hotels for those who seek unique and authentic experiences. Each of the 570 hotels across 90 countries has been personally visited, carefully inspected, and handpicked to ensure they uphold the highest standards of luxury and guest care. With an average of just 50 rooms, SLH properties offer an exclusive, intimate ambiance, far from the cookie-cutter chain hotels. Whether it's a charming fisherman's cabin, a cozy treehouse in the woods, a tranquil rainforest hideaway, or an elegant alpine chalet, every stay at an SLH property promises something truly special and unforgettable.

Discovery Boracay is named to Travel + Leisure’s 2025 T+L 500 list of the best hotels in the world

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Discovery Boracay is proud to be named to the 2025 T+L 500 list—a celebration of the best hotels in the world as chosen by the most important voices of all: the guests.

This prestigious list is featured in the May 2025 issue of Travel + Leisure, with highlights available at travelandleisure.com. The T+L 500 is based on the results of the 2024 World’s Best Awards, where travelers from around the globe vote for the places that made their journeys unforgettable. This year’s list honors the hotels and resorts that stood out for exceptional quality, thoughtful amenities, and heartfelt service—the very pillars that define Discovery Boracay.

For the team behind Discovery Boracay, this moment is incredibly meaningful. Guests remember more than just the beauty of Boracay’s white sands and turquoise waters; they remember how they felt. The team’s signature Service That’s All Heart lives in the small surprises, the personalized greetings, and the kind gestures that go beyond expectations—whether it’s a surprise treat for a honeymooning couple, a towel animal that delights a child, or a staff member remembering a returning guest by name.

“This recognition is close to our hearts because it came from the people we love to serve,” says Erwin Lopez, Hotel Manager of Discovery Boracay. “Every smile and every thoughtful detail adds up to something lasting—and that’s what we aim to create: memories our guests will carry home with them.”

Discovery Boracay was previously part of the T+L 500 from 2011 to 2014, and its return to the list in 2025 comes at a pivotal time. Following a successful rebranding, the resort embraced a refreshed identity while staying true to its soul. The new look is brighter, bolder, and more refined—but the heart behind every stay remains unchanged.

At the core of the reimagined Discovery Boracay are its people—fondly known as GEMs, or Guest Experience Makers—who are empowered to create moments of joy for every traveler who walks through the doors. Their passion and commitment shine through in every guest encounter and it's this consistency of care that sets the resort apart.

From beachfront celebrations to quiet moments of connection, Discovery Boracay continues to be a place where happiness lives, guests return time and time again, and the spirit of the island shines through every heartfelt stay.

SM and AirAsia partner to enhance customer value and drive business growth

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SM’s retail loyalty program SMAC has recently partnered with AirAsia rewards to enhance the shopping and travel experiences of its members. In photo are (from left to right): John Patrick Cua, Chief Operating Officer, SMAC; Jonathan Ng, Chief Finance Officer, SM Retail; Herson Sy, Executive Director, SM Group; Nicole Tan, Chief Business Officer, AirAsia rewards; Ricky Isla, Chief Executive Officer, AirAsia Philippines, Leong Diyao, Regional Head of Rewards Partnerships, AirAsia rewards.

The SM group’s retail loyalty program, SMAC, has entered a strategic tie-up with AirAsia rewards to offer enhanced shopping and travel experiences. This collaboration expands the value for both SMAC and AirAsia rewards members while strengthening SM’s presence across retail and travel sectors.

As part of the “My SMAC, My MOVE” lifestyle campaign, SMAC members can convert 500 AirAsia points into 125 SMAC Points via the AirAsia MOVE app, integrating the benefits of travel rewards into the SMAC ecosystem. This partnership builds on SMAC’s extensive network and introduces new rewards for frequent travelers and shoppers alike.

“We are excited to launch this collaboration with AirAsia rewards,” said Patrick Cua, Chief Operating Officer of SMAC. “By combining shopping and travel rewards, we’re enhancing the value of our loyalty program and offering more meaningful experiences to our members.”

SMAC Points earned through this partnership can be redeemed across a wide array of SM Retail Stores including SM Store, SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, Savemore, SM Appliance Center, and other popular brands like ACE Hardware, Our Home, Surplus, and Watsons.

Additionally, members can convert 200 SMAC Points into 300 AirAsia points via the SMAC website (smac.ph), providing more travel benefits and increasing the value for both shoppers and travelers.

“This partnership underscores our commitment to offering greater rewards and a seamless experience for our customers,” said Nicole Tan, Chief Business Officer at AirAsia rewards. “Working with SM allows us to enhance the value we provide to loyal customers in both the retail and travel sectors.”

The partnership brings business benefits to both parties. SM increases engagement and foot traffic across its retail stores while deepening customer loyalty. For AirAsia rewards, the collaboration taps into a new base of active shoppers, further strengthening its position in the Philippine travel market. Together, they create an expansive rewards ecosystem that combines shopping, travel, and lifestyle benefits.

This strategic tie-up aligns with both companies’ goals to drive customer loyalty, expand their reach, and enhance brand visibility. As SM continues to expand its service ecosystem, the partnership with a regional brand like AirAsia rewards marks a significant milestone in delivering lasting value for customers, investors, and both brands.

MVP-Led Landco Pacific Corporation Breaks Ground for Luxury Beachfront Residential Condominium: The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego

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A Final Call to be Part of the Philippines' Most Prestigious Leisure Community

Landco Pacific Corporation, a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) helmed by its Chairman Mr. Manuel V. Pangilinan, officially made a new construction milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego in the premier and exclusive beach community of Nasugbu, Batangas.

Key Executives of Landco Pacific: President and CEO Erickson Y. Manzano, Chief Finance Officer Marycris Panganiban and Vice President for Commercial and Customer Experience Gerard Peñaflor; construction partner Metro Stonerich Corporation President Maximillian Quintos; LPPA Design Group architects: Founding Principal and CEO Leo Pariñas and Partner Leo Casison; Terrazas de Punta Fuego Village Homeowners Association Inc.: President Susan Meily and Chairman of the Board Tony Cabrera; together with strategic partners for the project marked the start of the construction of The Residences.

“We are thrilled to begin the construction of The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego. Thoughtfully-designed from the ground up, the luxury residential condominium marks a new era in upscale beachfront living and represents the final opportunity to become part of an elite legacy and upscale leisure community of Punta Fuego,” Peñaflor stated.

“This latest development is Landco Pacific’s last piece of property in Punta Fuego, and it’s providential that it’s in a beachfront. It is the culmination of the Punta Fuego development, we are offering the privilege to be part of this exclusive community, that I think centuries from now will continue to be relevant,” Peñaflor expounded.

Luxury Beachfront Living

The Residences is poised as a pinnacle of luxury, offering exclusive one to three-bedroom apartments within its beachfront condominium, comprising three clusters. These residences boast low-density living, panoramic views of Nasugbu Bay, and a seamless blend of Spanish Mediterranean and Asian Tropical architecture.

Punta Fuego, developed by Landco Pacific Corp. and Roxaco Land Corp. in the 1990s, stands out among Nasugbu's developments for its prestigious marina, golf course, and distinguished community, commanding a fourfold price premium over adjacent areas.

The new project is touted as a high-value investment, given the track record of Punta Fuego which exceeded 1,000 percent value appreciation since it was developed in the 90s, and offers a legacy to be passed to future generations.

At The Residences, luxury meets nature. Residents can enjoy close proximity to the beach, 800 meters of fine white sand, and lush landscapes. Each unit has a guaranteed sea view and features expansive living spaces with generous ceiling heights, large windows, and private balconies, ensuring privacy and a serene environment. The property is also designed with modern amenities like a Lobby Lounge, Garden Courtyards, a conference room, a pool with a function room, and a spa and sauna, offering a balanced blend of business and leisure facilities.

2024 PropertyGuru Asia Property Award Winner

For its distinctive design and exclusive beach resort lifestyle offerings, The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego, was named Best Waterfront Condominium Development, and Highly Commended as the Best Lifestyle Condominium Development at the prestigious 2024 PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards.

Dedication to sustainability

Emphasizing sustainable development, The Residences is pursuing EDGE Certification with a commitment to energy and water efficiency, tree preservation, and support for electric vehicles. The incorporation of a double-pipe water system, rainwater harvesting, and environmental initiatives further demonstrates Landco's dedication to sustainability.

“Sustainability is part of Landco’s DNA not because we have to, but because it’s the right thing to do,” stated Landco Pacific Corporation President and CEO Erickson Y. Manzano.

Yacht Lifestyle

Unit owners and investors of The Residences can enjoy the yachting lifestyle at Punta Fuego, Landco’s pioneering and premier seaside development along the coastline of Nasugbu, Batangas. On a yacht, enthusiasts find a sense of freedom and pleasure in the invigorating open sea of Nasugbu Bay.

Landco together with Anya Hospitality Group and organized by the Punta Fuego Yacht Club and the Philippine Inter-Island Sailing Foundation (Phinsaf), holds an annual Punta Fuego Regatta, elevating the yacht experience to a thrilling competitive sailing event.

Thrill seekers among the country’s top yachtsmen-business executives engaged in a series of races between boats of different classes, shared their love of sailing, and forged stronger ties with like-minded individuals who enjoy this water sport.

An exclusive, idyllic community

Unit owners will enjoy the privileges of Club Association Membership, granting access to the exclusive amenities of Club Punta Fuego and the Landco Privilege Club Program. With the commitment to maintain its high environmental and community standards, The Residences represents not just a home but a legacy within an idyllic seaside sanctuary.

For more information about Landco Pacific Corporation, renowned for pioneering premium landscapes for more than 30 years and its last call for the most prestigious beachfront condominium - The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego, visit

https://theresidencespuntafuego.landco.ph/ 

or https://www.facebook.com/LandcoPacificCorporation

PAL Pledges Php10 Million to Empower the Next Generation of Filipina Pilots

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Philippine Airlines (PAL) seeks to address the gender gap in aviation through its Fly With Her program, which helps women pursue their dream of flying for the nation’s flag carrier. It recently pledged P10 million to the PAL Foundation, which oversees the scholarship program for women pilots.

“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we reiterate our support to women who dream of flying for and even assuming top positions in the PAL organization,” said Alvin M. Miranda, PAL Vice President for Marketing.

Apart from the P10 million pledge, PAL will release a film inspired by a real-life story of a young girl who dreamed of becoming a pilot.

“When little girls see women take on leadership roles, it inspires them to do the same and possibly go beyond,” said Lilybeth T. Ng, PAL Assistant Vice President for Pilot Affairs.

The gender gap in aviation remains significant, with only around 6% of pilots worldwide being women.

An Ally of Women in Aviation

PAL has long been a staunch supporter of women in the airline industry. In 1989, its very own Captain Aimee Carandang-Gloria became Southeast Asia’s first woman commercial airline pilot to fly a commercial flight. She broke barriers again in 1993, by becoming the region’s first woman airline captain. PAL continues to lead the way in opening doors for women in the male-dominated industry.

PAL continues to work for clearer and more inclusive skies in aviation, on the strength of its signature service of #CareThatComesFromTheHeart.

Know more about the Fly with Her Program and PAL’s advocacy towards women in aviation by visiting https://www.philippineairlines.com/FlyWithHer.

DOT highlights farm tourism’s transformative potential at 8th Philippine International Farm Tourism Conference

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GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco reaffirmed the Philippine government’s commitment to sustainable development and inclusive economic growth through the promotion of farm tourism at the 8th Philippine International Farm Tourism Conference (PIFTC), held Tuesday (Feb. 25) at the KCC Mall in General Santos City, South Cotabato.

The ceremonial turnover of hosting duties from General Santos City to Baguio City for the next Philippine International Farm Tourism Conference led by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, International School of Sustainable Tourism Chair Mina Gabor, and General Santos Councilor Virgie Tiongson Llido.

The three-day conference, organized by the International School of Sustainable Tourism (ISST) in partnership with the DOT, brought together local and international experts, policymakers, farmers, and tourism stakeholders. The event aimed to highlight General Santos City’s potential as a leading destination for sustainable and innovative farm tourism practices.

In her keynote address, Secretary Frasco underscored the transformative potential of farm tourism in driving rural development, ensuring food security, and preserving the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage.

“At the heart of farm tourism lies a simple yet powerful idea: our farms are more than just places of production. They are living landscapes of culture, history, and sustainability—where traditions are passed down, innovation takes root, and communities find new pathways to prosperity,” Secretary Frasco said.

“Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., we recognize farm tourism’s vital role in contributing to our nation’s prosperity. Guided by the National Tourism Development Plan, the DOT is committed to strengthening this sector through programs that empower local communities and promote sustainable agricultural practices,” she added.

With the theme “Innovations in Farm Tourism: Cultivating Growth and Sustainability,” the conference spotlighted success stories from across the country, including bio-diversified farming initiatives that have revitalized rural communities, such as General Santos City's grapes farming as an emerging industry.

Secretary Frasco reaffirmed the DOT’s dedication to positioning farm tourism as a vital pillar of the country’s tourism strategy. She also emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies, local government units, and private stakeholders to ensure the sector’s sustainability and growth.

“By embracing our agricultural heritage and unlocking new opportunities in farm tourism, we cultivate a future where agriculture and tourism bring prosperity to our rural communities—while preserving these vital livelihoods for generations to come,” she remarked.

Passing the torch: General Santos City to Baguio City

One of the conference’s highlights was the turnover of hosting duties from General Santos City to Baguio City for the next PIFTC installment.

Secretary Frasco, alongside ISST Chairperson and former DOT Secretary Mina Gabor and General Santos Councilor Virgie Tiongson Llido, presided over the ceremonial handover of hosting duties, underscoring the importance of continuity in the promotion of sustainable farm tourism across the Philippines.